BINTULU: The implementation of 46 high-impact water supply projects, with an approximate value of RM768 million, is currently underway to improve the infrastructure and water supply system here.
It was announced that the Sarawak government, in coordination with the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, has planned these water supply projects through the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication and the Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) to address the rising water supply demand here.
Thirty-one water supply projects worth approximately RM234 million have been completed and have successfully addressed several water supply issues in various areas of the region.
“Meanwhile, eight projects worth approximately RM118 million are still in the construction phase and are showing very positive progress. In addition, there are seven projects worth approximately RM416 million still in the planning phase,” JBALB said in a statement on Tuesday (Oct 24).
“The overall progress of the eight projects that are still in the construction phase shows remarkable performance, despite previous challenges in implementation due to the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, JBALB Sarawak, along with project contractors, has taken appropriate measures to ensure these water supply projects proceed and are completed within the established timelines,” it added.
As for the construction of the 600mm MSCL Water Pipe Crossing at Kemena Bridge to Simpang IKM, with an approximate value of RM7.3 million, it was completed in August 2021 and transferred to LAKU Management Sdn. Bhd, it said.
This initiative has significantly improved water supply for the inhabitants in the Jepak area, along the Bintulu-Tatau Road, and in Kuala Tatau.
As for the High-Level Samarakan Tank Construction project under Package NR1 WO2, valued at approximately RM15.7 million, it is 98.31 per cent complete and is expected to be finished by the end of this year.
This project includes the installation of a new pipeline and improvements to the existing booster pump station. Once the project is fully completed, it will benefit the residents in the Jepak constituency, especially in the Bintulu-Tatau road area.
“To ensure better and continuous water supply quality in the Bintulu region, JBALB Sarawak said it will ensure that the projects currently in the implementation phase are completed within the specified timeframe.
“These projects are part of the Sarawak Water Supply Grid System to effectively and comprehensively address water supply issues,” it added.
